- Ibas No-Show: He skipped a crucial meeting with lawmakers investigating the Rivers State emergency.
- NEC Appearance: He was present at the National Economic Council (NEC) meeting.
- Emergency Declaration: President Tinubu declared a six-month state of emergency in Rivers State back in March.
- Political Fallout: The House Committee is not happy, and questions are swirling about the state’s governance.
Ibas Ignores Reps, Chooses NEC Meeting
The drama unfolded as Vice Admiral Ibok-Ete Ibas (rtd.), appointed Sole Administrator of Rivers State, decided to attend the National Economic Council (NEC) meeting instead of facing the House of Representatives Ad-Hoc Committee. This move has raised eyebrows and fueled speculation about the political climate in Rivers State.
Why the Reps’ Invitation?
The House Committee, led by Prof. Julius Ihonvbere, was set up after President Bola Tinubu declared a state of emergency in Rivers State. This followed the suspension of Governor Siminalayi Fubara. The committee aimed to discuss the current political situation and the state’s governance under Ibas’s administration.
Closed-Door Disappointment
Lawmakers were visibly frustrated. After going into a closed-door meeting, they declined to comment on Ibas’s absence. The session was intended to facilitate a much-needed discussion on the happenings in Rivers State since Ibas took office.
A History of Missed Opportunities
This isn’t the first time Ibas has dodged the committee. The meeting had already been rescheduled once at his request. His continued absence raises concerns about transparency and accountability in the administration of Rivers State.
NEC Meeting Debut
Despite the controversy, Ibas made his first appearance at the NEC meeting. The meeting, presided over by Vice President Kashim Shettima, included governors and deputy governors from across Nigeria.
What’s Next for Rivers State?
The political situation in Rivers State remains tense. With the Sole Administrator facing criticism and the state of emergency still in effect, the future is uncertain. Will Ibas address the concerns raised by the House Committee? Only time will tell.
The Bigger Picture: States of Emergency in Nigeria
Declaring a state of emergency is a significant move, often done in response to widespread unrest, natural disasters, or security threats. According to Section 305 of the Nigerian Constitution, the President can declare a state of emergency if the nation is at war, in imminent danger of invasion or involvement in a state of war, there is actual breakdown of public order and public safety in the Federation or any part thereof, or there is a clear and present danger of an actual breakdown of public order and public safety in the Federation or any part thereof, requiring extraordinary measures to avert such danger, among other situations. The National Assembly must approve the declaration for it to remain in effect for more than two days. States of emergency often grant the government expanded powers to maintain order, sometimes at the expense of civil liberties.
In the past, states of emergency have been declared in various states across Nigeria due to factors ranging from religious and ethnic conflicts to security challenges such as insurgency. These declarations typically involve increased military presence, curfews, and restrictions on movement to restore peace and stability.